Part 5.1. Overview on eco-efficiency of constructions

Abstract

The physical existence and mainstream technologies of the built environment rely on large consumption of nature's resources. Building and construction activities including manufacture of construction materials and products are material and energy intensive as such, and in addition, the use and operation of the built environment cause even more environmental risks. Due to growths in world population, world economy and middle-class, as well as urbanization and urban sprawl, trends indicate a constantly increasing consumption. The share of construction of overall resource extraction, tends to increase from its current 40-50% of about 60 billion tonnes (EU 2009, UNEP 2007). The amount of mineral resources used for construction tends to increase from its current one third of all resource use (OECD 2008).